Upgrading bars and wheels... where to start??

Can I ask why you want to upgrade parts and components?

Since you admitted to not being schooled on cost, brands, configurations, etc it doesn't sound like you really have your heart set on a specific build in mind. Wanting to build up a frame with specific parts is usually the reason why someone want to tackle such a thing in the first place (aside from the personal satisfaction of DIY), so if you have it in your mind that it will be cheaper to do it this way, you're likely mistaken. Buying a new, complete stock bike already built up is the most cost effective way to go, since you're talking about a top-of-the-line bike. As an example, a Cervelo P2C frame will set youback $2000, but for only $700 or so more you get a complete Ultegra bike. Complete. You can't (easily) build it for that cheap.

My advice would be to save your cash, ride your current bike, then spend it all in one fell swoop on a stock bike. 99% of the time you'll get much more bang for your buck.

Edited by sty 2008-09-18 1:23 PM

Thanks for the input. I would like to do this mostly because I think it'll be fun to pick and choose my components over time. The bike is an ultegra and dura ace mix so I don't think I will have to upgrade the drive train/transmission on it.

This is a link to the full specs:

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/nemesis06_SPECIALpre...

Thanks again and I welcome more input on this.

Enjoy those wheels.  I just upgraded mine to HED JetC2's for one main reason: My Xero's wouldn't stay true.  After I replaced them I realized two things: they're heavier than the aero wheels (no real shock) and the reason everything was always covered in grease was because the bearing race on those wheels is open and packed with grease that has a tendency to leak out onto everything else.  My chain and gears are actually staying clean with the new setup.

Edited: Nevermind, you already own the Nemesis.


Edited by Sprint_DA 2008-09-18 2:18 PM

Going by my experience building (and rebuilding) cars, and my current bike building project, the first thing to do is make out a plan.

1, Most important, decide what you are willing to spend and write it down, so you can't up it.

2. Decide on your dream frame and find the best price.

3. Make a list of all the ancillary parts that make up a bike, even the little ones

4. Decide what you can and will re-use from the Nemesis and cross these off the list in 3

5. Spec out what you want, and the price you expect to pay for the components, for EVERYTHING else left on the list in 3

6. Add it all up and compare it to the number in 1. You will most likely be WAY above it. Now, either adjust number 1 or the parts in number 5 until you get to where you want to be.

7. Either start collecting parts or start saving enough money for the complete bike.

This is what a person SHOULD do. Going by my experience building (and rebuilding) cars, and my current bike building project, this is PRECISELY what I DON'T do. Therefore, my '65 Mustang project is about 75% over budget and still not done, and my bike project is about 50% over what I initially thought was a good idea to spend on a tri bike.

Don't do what I do. Research frames/parts/etc. to get an idea an have a plan beforehand.

Sprint DA -

I have been wanting to upgrade wheels also. However, my Xero's stay true without issue and I have not noticed the grease. That being said, can you compare the xero's with your new HED's.

How much of a difference did the new wheels make and in what ares?

Thanks so much

So you already got a decent drive train, Ultegra Deraillers and Dura Ace shifting, so check that off your list. The stem and seatpost are fine as well, you will probably get a seatpost with your new frame in a few years anyhow. Stems only need to be switched out if they aren't the right size anyhow.

What else is there, lets see:

Seat - if your not happy with the current one.

Sensible Upgradable Components:
Frame
Cockpit (Base and Extensions)
Pedals
Wheels


The only one of these four that are going to make much of a difference is the wheels so go wheel shopping when you get your budget set.

As for the Cockpit, I got a used Vision Base bar ($29) and clip-ons ($45) by waiting and watching the classifieds and ebay until my sizes and price range came around. Paitience was the key.

Over time you can choose the right cassette and chain you want as the stock ones wear out.

Its a bike, not a spaceship, don't make rocket science out of it.

Thanks for the reality check. Sometimes, I think, we all need that.